Traffic Operations Meteorology Intern

Job Purpose and Summary

The Traffic Operations Meteorology Intern program involves training and assignments designed to develop proficiency and gain operational knowledge in the traffic operations unit of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC). An employee in this position works with higher-level professionals to acquire an understanding of established procedures, practices, and methods. Employees receive instruction through demonstrations and participation in projects, performing increasingly more difficult duties as the familiarization period progresses. Close supervision is provided by a manager or higher-level advisor who assigns projects, gives preliminary instructions, and reviews work.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Participates in an on-the-job training program designed to develop practical proficiency in the use of meteorology principles and practices applied to assure efficient traffic operations.

Assists with daily and weekly weather forecasting in support of the organization’s objectives.

Participates and assists with conducting data analysis of predictive weather patterns, post-event weather, and historical weather events/patterns to identify potential issues, hazards, and/or risks that may impact traffic operations. 

Attends meetings and participates in project teams to provide recommendations for new project ideas and procedures. 

Creates monthly/seasonal maps for various departments. 

Assists with the maintenance of GIS/data for the PTC weather dashboard. 

Works with the Communications Department on messaging for various audiences.

Communicates and coordinates with supervisors, subordinates, and contractors.

Attends meetings and presents information clearly and effectively.

Uses situational awareness to anticipate and prevent accidents.

Performs related duties as assigned as per college internship program requirements.

Qualifications

Must be currently enrolled into their junior or senior year of a post-secondary educational program  with major course work in meteorology or other related discipline. 

Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0.  

Possession of a valid driver’s license. Must obtain and maintain a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license within six (6) months of employment.

Competencies

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Position demands include frequent speaking, writing, and reading reports. Position requires frequent work at a computer utilizing business programs and PTC specific operating systems. Position requires occasional travel and/or fieldwork with exposure to roadway traffic. Occasionally works outside of normal business hours.

Office environment with low levels of noise, adequate lighting, and comfortable temperature. Field environment may include exposure to moderately adverse and undesirable conditions. Physical environment is generally safe, but safety equipment or precautions must be followed in field conditions.  

Disclaimer

The information provided in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by the incumbent(s) within this job. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and working conditions required of the employee(s) assigned to this job. Management has the discretion to add or modify duties of the job and to designate other functions as essential at any time.